Best Cinnamon Substitutes
Out of cinnamon? These are the best cinnamon substitutes you can use in cooking and baking — ranked by how well they work in most recipes. Whether you need a dairy-free swap, a pantry staple alternative, or just ran out mid-recipe, one of these 4 options will have you covered.
Cinnamon Substitution Options
Allspice
Use instead of Ground Cinnamon
Allspice is a single berry that tastes like a blend of cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg. Use 1:1 for a slightly more complex but very similar warm spice profile in baked goods, oatmeal, and mulled drinks.
¾ tsp Nutmeg + ¼ tsp Allspice
Use instead of Ground Cinnamon
This combination closely replicates cinnamon's warm, sweet-spiced character. The nutmeg leads and the allspice adds depth. Works well in cookies, cakes, and spiced beverages.
½ tsp Cardamom
Use instead of Ground Cinnamon
Cardamom is more floral and aromatic than cinnamon — use half the amount. Best in sweet recipes, chai, rice pudding, and Scandinavian-style baked goods where a perfumed warmth is desired.
Pumpkin Pie Spice
Use instead of Ground Cinnamon
Pumpkin pie spice is a blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves — it's essentially amplified cinnamon. Use 1:1 where cinnamon is the dominant spice and complexity is welcome.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best substitute for cinnamon?
The best substitutes for cinnamon are Allspice, ¾ tsp Nutmeg + ¼ tsp Allspice, ½ tsp Cardamom. Allspice is a single berry that tastes like a blend of cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg. Use 1:1 for a slightly more complex but very similar warm spice profile in baked goods, oatmeal, and mulled drinks.
Can I use ¾ tsp Nutmeg + ¼ tsp Allspice instead of cinnamon?
This combination closely replicates cinnamon's warm, sweet-spiced character. The nutmeg leads and the allspice adds depth. Works well in cookies, cakes, and spiced beverages.
How do I substitute cinnamon in baking?
When substituting cinnamon in baking, it's important to match the ratio carefully. Check the individual substitution notes above for exact measurements and tips for each swap.